WATSONVILLE & SALINAS, CA - Looking at the berry market in the past week, we’ve seen some changes in the raspberry and strawberry categories. According to The Source report, logistical challenges in Mexico have made for a firm raspberry market. For strawberries, supplies are looking tight following high Valentine’s Day demand.

I got in touch with some industry friends to hear what they are seeing in the fields.

Jerry Moran, Vice President of Sales, Naturipe Farms

“We’re looking forward to great promotable volumes of Naturipe strawberries in March, with products coming from both Florida, where supplies will be peaking, as well as southern California, where production will be ramping up. We can thank Mother Nature for this uptick in volumes! In Florida, we had a cooler winter, and in California, we’re experiencing some rain, both of which are helping to boost spring production. Consumers are in for a treat once March rolls around—we’re expecting the berries we harvest to be perfectly red, sweet, and juicy! Our Mighty Reds, the biggest and juiciest strawberries on the market, will also be available from March through May—these will be some of the largest and sweetest berries for everyone to enjoy. They’re limited time only, so get them while you can!”

Fernando Aguiar, Director of Business Development, Naturipe Farms

“We’re bringing you the best of both worlds with 100% proprietary raspberry production from two key growing regions in Mexico: Baja and Central Mexico. We’re just starting to see production in Baja wind down, but production won’t skip a beat thanks to our new fields in Central Mexico. Having multiple growing regions means that volumes will stay seamlessly steady throughout February and March before ramping up in April. Retailers and consumers can look forward to an abundance of vibrant, perfectly sweet raspberries that are guaranteed to impress.”

Tim Youmans, Vice President of Sales, California Giant Berry Farms

“California Giant is pleased with the consistently strong quality of raspberries we've seen this season. Our supply has been steady from Central Mexico, meeting robust market demand. We expect the market to remain strong in the coming weeks and look forward to continuing to deliver our high-quality fruit to our customers.

The strawberry market is currently experiencing high demand driven by Valentine's Day. Quality is improving steadily week over week, and we're encouraged by the recovery of Florida's production after the earlier weather challenges. Mexico is also contributing good quality fruit, and California's Santa Maria growing region is ramping up its production. While winter weather remains a factor we're watching closely, California Giant anticipates a strengthening supply in the coming weeks as we move into full production.”

We will continue to keep you informed as we follow market conditions.